Foal found suffering in a field

The Shetland yearling had gashes to its neck that had become infected and was unable to stand up on its own.

A member of the public discovered the injured animal while out walking in Ratby on Monday and called the RSPCA.

An inspector visited the field in Sacheverell Way and, after assessing the foal, called for a vet and the police.

A spokesman for the RSPCA said: "It was discovered the Shetland yearling had severe injuries.

"The RSPCA requested a vet and the police to attend and, following an examination, the vet made a decision the kindest thing for this youngster was to euthanise it because the injuries were so severe and infected.

"The RSPCA has launched an investigation so therefore cannot make further comment.

"But we would appeal to anyone who has information as to who may have owned this yearling or if anyone saw it being dumped in the area."